Let’s talk about your vehicle and the different types of brake rotors available.
Every time you use your brakes to stop your car, you are entrusting that the around 40+ components in your vehicle’s brake system will all work cohesively, and safely bring your vehicle to a halt. Some of the main components that ensure that your vehicle will stop when you compress your brakes don’t get the recognition they deserve; those components are the rotors. Learn more about rotors here.
The Purpose of Brake Rotors
Rotors are circular discs that connect to each wheel, which means there are two in the front and two in the back.
They turn the vehicle’s kinetic energy (motion) into thermal energy (heat). This happens as the calipers compress your brake pads together and the rotors create friction. The friction the rotors create resists the spin of the vehicle wheel which slows the wheel rotation and movement of the car.
To get the most out of them and protect your vehicle, you must be sure to choose the correct type of brake rotor for your vehicle.
Brake Rotor Styles
When it comes to choosing and replacing the rotors on your vehicle, make sure you choose the best type when having your brakes repaired for you and your vehicle’s needs.
The types of brake rotors include:
- Solid Rotors or Vented Rotors
- Drilled Rotors
- Slotted Rotors
- Drilled and Slotted Rotors
Solid Rotors or Vented Rotors
Solid or vented rotors are the most common rotors on newer vehicles, they are the OE-specific rotors that are offered in basic and premium options based on how they are manufactured. Basic OE-specific rotors are completely flat and made of recycled steel and often have thicker internal fins, which can impact the way your rotors cool down. These rotors are the best choice for the everyday driver.
Drilled Rotors
Drilled rotors have holes drilled throughout the surface of the rotors, allowing rotors to cool faster and heat to easily evaporate and dissolve off of the rotor.
Slotted Rotors
Slotted rotors have slots around the exterior surface of the rotor making them the best rotor choice for heavy-duty trucks and SUVs because they offer extra stopping power specifically for larger vehicles. The slotted rotor is designed to draw more air between the brake pad and rotor area, which in return can improve the cooling process and heat dispersion. The slots also help keep the brake debris at a minimum and a pad glaze that can happen at high temperatures. Although these rotors are ideal for large vehicles, they don’t last long which can wear down your brake pads quicker as a result.
Drilled and Slotted Rotors
Drilled and slotted rotors have both slots and drilled holes around the surface of the rotor. They are mainly used for performance vehicles that need improved braking at high speeds.
Signs You Need New Rotors
Just like everything else in your vehicle, the rotors will have to be replaced at some point. Over time the friction and heat that is caused by the rotors and the brake pads rubbing together will break down the rotors and start showing different signs that it is time for new rotors.
For example, your steering wheel will start vibrating, shuddering, or pulsing, (which is usually a sign of warped rotors), you will start hearing a screeching noise when applying the brakes, or your rotors turn the color blue.
Not all aftermarket rotors are created equal, some are made of soft inferior steel and will break down a lot faster than higher-quality rotors.
We Replace Rotors At Your Vehicle’s Location!
When you choose 2’u’BRAKES you can cut your shop time in half and avoid the lines in total.
You can receive that premium shop experience but stress-free and at an affordable price with a service that comes to you.
Contact us today to schedule you’re at-home auto repair or oil change.
